He’s been doing alterations to my clothes for about 15 years – while I’ve been observing and absorbing everything he does and asking him hundreds of (possibly annoying) questions, quizzing him on why he’s doing what he’s doing, what can be done, what can’t be done, where should a shoulder sit, a sleeve finish, etc, etc)

If you need anything made or altered go and see Jose Zarpan and tell him I sent you. He’s on Level 3 in the Nicholas Building, Swanson St, Melbourne. (You can read what some of my clients who I have introduced Jose to, said about working with him on my Facebook page here)

*This is not a sponsored post, and I don’t receive any “kickbacks”/commission from Jose, I just think he’s very good and am very happy to highly recommend him.

One is five foot 2 (considered a petite) – she has a defined waist and her hips, bottom and thighs are wider than her bust and/or shoulders. (Commonly known as triangular in shape).

The other is five foot 9 – her shoulders, bust and hips are about the same size, with no defined waist. (Commonly known as rectangular in shape).

Remember both generally wear a size 12.

There is no way that the size 12 in the store will fit them both beautifully. It might roughly fit, (ie they might be able to get it on) but that’s about it.

In this case, when something fits you sort of ok – it’s then up to you to decide whether you walk away or whether you commit to having it altered. Near enough, is not good enough.

*As a petite it can be challenging to find clothes that fit me well. If I find something I love that doesn’t fit just right, I buy it with the proviso I can return it, then I take it to my tailor to see if he can alter it to fit me. This might mean having it lifted on the shoulders or waist, the seams run in through the middle, the sleeves shortened or just a simple hem taken up.

Learn how to tell when something doesn’t fit you properly. It’s the number one thing I see in the wardrobes that I help overhaul. Lots of women buy clothes that don’t fit them, then just settle for wearing them ill- fitting. Often they can tell something isn’t right – because they know when they put something on that it doesn’t feel great – but they’re not sure why.

About Me

I'm a Personal Stylist from Melbourne who is passionate about helping real women of all ages, shapes and sizes with varying budgets and lifestyles, look and feel the very best they can. I love old things, am addicted to blogs and online shopping sites, have a weakness for happily-ever-after movies and dream of one day having my own apartment in Paris. I'm an avid collector of beautiful books, love a full-bodied glass of red, and could eat my body weight in French cheese.

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Recent Testimonials

Hi Meaghan!
I just wanted to take a moment to write you, to thank you.
You have made a huge difference in the way I feel about myself. You gently encouraged me to see myself in a new light, a far kinder light. You encouraged me to look for my best features instead of fixating on my worst. You encouraged me to be bold while still staying true to who I am. You encouraged me to take care of myself. All of this in a styling session?!
I have read so many ridiculous fashion magazines over the years, but you influenced me more in a matter of a couple of styling sessions. Now every day I take care in the clothes I choose, that reflect how I feel and who I am and the life I lead. When I shop, I make wise choices and wear every item I buy. When I head out into the world, I feel confident and like myself, and never feel frumpy any more.
So thank you, Meaghan, for making me feel great.
I truly appreciate it, and I look forward to having another session!
Shannon x— Shannon K, Fitzroy